Robotic heart surgery and open-heart surgery are the two most debated options for cardiac problems. In this article, we will explore the various factors to consider before choosing the best option for you.
What is Robotic Heart Surgery?
It is a surgery that offers a minimally invasive procedure, avoiding bone breaking or major muscle cuts. The surgeon controls three robotic arms without directly touching the heart.
During robot-assisted heart surgery, the patient will be given anesthesia to sleep and a breathing tube for ventilation. The surgeon will make small chest incisions and may use a heart-lung machine for further support. Robotic arms and a camera producing 3D images are inserted to perform the procedure controlled by the surgeon from a console. Afterward, the tools are removed, and the incisions are closed.
What is Open-Heart Surgery?
Open-heart surgery is a conventional technique requiring a central chest incision to access the heart. It is commonly performed to address cardiac problems such as blocked arteries, valve disorders, and congenital heart defects.
The procedure for this method involves a chest incision, cutting the breastbone, and accessing the heart. The heart may be stopped and connected to a bypass machine during the procedure. After the repairs are completed, blow flow is restored and the incision is closed with sutures or wires.
Key Differences Between Robotic Heart Surgery vs. Open-Heart Surgery
| S.no. | Factor | Robotic Heart Surgery | Open-Heart Surgery |
| 1 | Technique | Minimally invasive. Robotic arms and cameras control the instruments. | Requires a large incision to access the heart. |
| 2 | Incision size | Keyhole incisions. | Large central incision. |
| 3 | Recovery | Fast as the incisions are small. | Longer. |
| 4 | Time Precision | Highly precise with the assistance of a three-arm robot, cameras, and a surgeon. | The surgeon controls the entire procedure. |
| 5 | Cost | Tends to be more expensive due to the technology being used. | As it is a standard procedure, it is comparably less expensive. |
Benefits of Robotic Heart Surgery
- Minimally invasive.
- Short recovery time.
- The risk of post-operative infection is less.
Benefits of Open-Heart Surgery
- Traditional and extensively tested methodology.
- Available in most hospitals.
- Better for patients with additional health complications.
Limitations and Risks
Robotic Surgery:
- Cost: This tends to be a higher cost due to the technology and equipment being used in the procedure.
- Availability: Not all hospitals provide this procedure as they may not be equipped with the appropriate equipment or professionals, hence limiting access to patients.
- Training for doctors: As this is a technologically more advanced procedure, it requires doctors to undergo appropriate training to become proficient with the robotic systems and tools.
- Needing to convert to an open-heart procedure midway.
- Potential complications: While there is a low complication rate, there are still some risks that need to be taken into consideration. These include bleeding, infection, and stroke. Other symptoms such as pus around the incision site, fever, and swelling require immediate medical attention.
Open-Heart Surgery:
- Recovery period: requires a longer recovery time due to the larger incision and cutting of the breastbone (sternum). Patients need a longer time in the hospital to recover.
- Scarring: Due to the larger incision, it leads to a noticeable scar which may be a concern for certain patients.
- Long-term complications: After the procedure, patients may face irregular heartbeats, blood clots, tissue damage, pneumonia, swelling, infection, and fever. These need to be consulted by a medical professional.
Who is a candidate for each procedure?
There are many factors to consider such as age, health condition, type of heart issue, degree of complexity, other conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and previous heart complications such as heart attack and stroke. It is best to get a cardiologist’s opinion about what type of surgery is the best for you and your condition.
Comparison of the cost
For robotic heart surgery in Bangalore, Delhi, and other metropolitan cities, the cost ranges from ₹3,35,000 to ₹5,95,000 for robotic surgery. Whereas for open-heart surgery, the cost ranges from ₹1,90,000 to ₹4,00,000 approximately.
Chennai is a top choice for robotic heart surgery as it has experienced surgeons and high-end and advanced technology. Patients benefit from precise and quick treatments due to their fast recovery period. For robotic heart surgery in Chennai, they combine innovation with technological advancements and quality patient care.
How to decide which is right for you
To choose the right surgery, you must consult with multiple specialists and physicians who understand your health needs. It is required to weigh the risks with the benefits of both procedures while taking into consideration your age, your heart condition, and overall health.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the method of heart surgery should be based on the individual’s health requirements. Talking to healthcare professionals about your specific condition and lifestyle and understanding all the risks and benefits is of utmost importance before making this decision.
References:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/robotic-surgery/multimedia/vid-20198746
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/robotic-cardiac-surgery
https://www.healthline.com/health/open-heart-surgery#after-surgery
https://roboticheartsurgeon.com/risks-robotic-heart-surgery/